Stu The Hiker UK

I feel sorry for any Newbie that turns to this thread for some basic help. If you're new to something you want it explained in some basic detail that's easy to digest, then if you want more info or have more questions like how do I calibrate my altimeter to my map, then someone posts a single easy to understand response. If I was a Newbie to the world of maps and navigation, I would be lost in this thread. maybe the thread name needs to be changed to "mine shines brighter than yours and I know more than you about the world the universe, the proper use of big words and the Global Positioning System". That I'm sure would save Newbies from wondering in Please feel free to pull my post to bits, but don't wait for me to come back with smart answers full of big words. I feel my job is done here unless someone asks for help

Cachemagnet Great program, downloaded it a few days ago and it does what it says on the tin God bless open source and all that code her

Garmin eTrex H works for me At the cheap end of the scale, no maps etc etc..... You can pay more if you want more but if you just want a unit that keeps its lock on satalites under dense tree cover, then you can't go wrong with the eTrex, but make sure it's the 'H' model. Another nice feature is the easy grip one handed use of the Garmin units. I like that I have to press hard on the buttons, it's saves me from makeing unwanted selections. It's also bright yellow and easy to see when you put it down on the forest floor. it's waterproof and runs for 17 hours on 2xAA batteries. The screen is easy to see in bright sunlight and nice and easy on the eyes in the evening with the backlight turned on. When my eTrex H arrived it had the WAAS turned off, which I found strange as this is an enhancement to the accuracy of the unit. So make sure that you go into the settings and turn on WAAS. And don't splash out on the PC link cable, it's dog easy to make your own from and old serial lead, a glue gun and a thin piece of plastic

Bracelands is a good site that has no clubs, shops or any of the other noise making stuff. What it does have is clean flat camping ground that's perfect for tents. it's got clean toliets and showers. Nice spot that many of my friends have camped at. It's a few minutes away from The Speech House Hotel, that has an Obelisk across the road that marks the center of the forest. Personally I camp in the woods, but that's not strictly leagal in the UK